AYV News, June 10, 2025
The Government of Sierra Leone has officially launched the Feed Salone Strategy for the Fisheries and Marine Resources sector, a 10-year plan designed to boost food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability through better management of the country’s marine wealth.
The launch brought together key players from across government ministries, donor agencies, civil society, and the fishing community including both industrial and artisanal sectors. Development partners such as the World Bank, the Iceland, and other technical collaborators were also present, pledging support for the strategy’s implementation. The strategy forms part of President Julius Maada Bio’s broader Feed Salone initiative, launched in 2023, and aims to expand the original focus on agriculture to now include fisheries as a key contributor to national food production and job creation.
In her address, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dugba, emphasized the importance of marine resources in tackling food insecurity and improving livelihoods. She described the newly launched strategy as a tool to fix critical gaps in the sector including issues like underreporting of catch volumes, illegal fishing practices, and lack of coordination across institutions. “The goal is not just to write policy, but to implement it meaningfully,” she said, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to action.
Director of Fisheries, Sheku Sei, provided further insights into how the strategy will improve sector regulation, protect the marine environment, and ensure fairer access for artisanal fishers. He noted that better data collection and transparency will be a core part of the plan.
Speaking on behalf of the government, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh commended the Ministry for aligning its efforts with the national Feed Salone vision. He noted that the consequences of inaction are far-reaching, from rising food imports to missed economic opportunities. “We have to act boldly. This strategy is a step in that direction,” he added.
The Feed Salone fisheries strategy, set to run from 2025 to 2035, outlines how sustainable practices, local economic inclusion, and institutional accountability can transform the sector. It also aligns with the government’s push for economic diversification and job creation, particularly for young people.
As the rains begin and global food systems face increasing strain, stakeholders say the success of this strategy will depend on cooperation not just within government, but between communities, businesses, and international partners. The Feed Salone journey is no longer just about the farm, it’s now riding the tide.
